Membership Policies & Practices

The YMCA is a shared experience for everyone to enjoy. Each of us can make it better for all by being considerate to others. Our Members, Guests, Volunteers and Staff all accept the responsibility to treat one another with kindness, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and optimism.

General Information

Photo ID Policy

If you are 16 years+, you must swipe a YMCA Membership Card or show government-issued photo ID to enter the YMCA. You must sign-in at Member Services before accessing any part of the Y. If you are the parent, guardian, grandparent, relative, etc. of a child member, you must swipe your own YMCA Membership Card to gain access, or show your photo ID.

Participant Etiquette

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka reserves the right to revoke or suspend membership and/or access privileges at its sole discretion, for:

Any inappropriate behaviour not conducive to a values-based, family environment;
Any personal conduct (at, or away from YMCA premises) that may be prejudicial to or incompatible with the YMCA’s values, goals, business interests and public reputation; or
Any breach of YMCA rules, policies or procedures (including those relating to harassment or discrimination).

Technology Etiquette

The YMCA values and respects the privacy and security of our members and participants. We ask that you please not use any cell phones, digital cameras, or other electronic devices that may infringe upon the enjoyment, privacy and security of your fellow members and participants.

Photography during any YMCA program or activity is not allowed. There may be designated times, on occasion, for parents to photograph their own children in programs. These times will be posted in advance.

YMCA Change Rooms are technology-free zones. When using these areas, please ensure that your electronic devices are stored in either your pocket, or your gym bag.

Cell phones may be used in the lobby of the YMCA. Please be mindful of other members and participants at all times. We appreciate your cooperation in helping to create an enjoyable experience for all.

Safety

Your safety is important to us! We are here to help you achieve your goals and enjoy a respectful, safe and fun workout. For your safety and the safety of others, proper attire must be worn while in program areas at all times.

Only clean, dry, non-marking, closed-toe running shoes are permitted.
Dress appropriately – gym attire; shirts, shorts, running shoes. Shirts must be worn.
Food or beverages (except water) are not permitted in the locker rooms or program areas.
Protect your belongings – lock them up in the locker room.
Do not use the camera function on personal devices.
Taking photographs, images or recordings is prohibited in locker rooms or pool areas.
For your safety, YMCA Health, Fitness & Aquatics centres have video surveillance in common areas.

Privacy Statement

The YMCA strives to ensure that volunteers and staff conduct their relationships with each other, participants and all other Association contacts with integrity, good judgement and fairness.

The YMCA respects the right of individuals to the protection of their personal information.

The YMCA is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, privacy, and accuracy of personal information it collects, uses and discloses about its participants, members, donors, parents/guardians, staff and volunteers.

YMCA Access

Child (0-9 years of age)

Your child’s safety is important to us!

Children (ages 0-12) are not allowed to purchase any YMCA products or services on their own (including access passes) regardless of the method of payment.
Children under the age of 10 may use YMCA programs supervised by YMCA staff, as well as gymnasiums, pools (parent or guardian 16 years+ must be in the pool with the child), courts, or tracks when accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 16. To ensure your child’s safety, you must remain in the building while your child participates in a YMCA instructor-led program. When your child is not in a YMCA instructor-led program, you must directly supervise them at all times.

Swim Supervision Policy

This policy applies to all Open Swims, Family Swims, Special Events & Birthday Parties.

Children under 6 years of age must be directly supervised in the water by a parent/guardian, who is at least 16 years of age, at a ratio of 1:2. All children must be within arm’s reach of the guardian in the shallow end.
Children 6 to 9 years of age must be directly supervised in the water by a parent/guardian, who is at least 16 years of age, at a ratio of 1:4.
Children 10 and up are welcome to swim in the pool as appropriate to their swim ability. Children will be asked to perform the facility swim test. Those who cannot yet pass the swim test will be required to remain in the shallow end.

Parents, Guardians, Support Workers & Service Animals

All of our Health, Fitness and Aquatics centres meet the accessibility requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The YMCA is committed to diversity and social inclusion, and to providing environments that are accessible for everyone.

YMCA participants with a disability are welcome to bring a support worker to assist them at no additional charge. Please note that access and identification policies apply.
YMCA participants with a disability are welcome to bring a service animal into our facilities. The service animal should be readily identified with visual indicators, such as a vest or harness.

Conditioning Room

YMCA Conditioning Rooms are available anytime that we are open. Please note that Conditioning Room Etiquette, Safety and Attire Practices are strictly enforced. YMCA Trainers and Managers reserve the right to remove any YMCA Member or guests that do not comply.
YMCA Members and guests age 10-12 may be allowed to use YMCA Conditioning Rooms upon successful completion of our Youth Wellness Courses, or with authorization from certified YMCA Trainers.

Group Fitness

YMCA Group Fitness Classes are available for any YMCA Members or Guests age 13+. Some restrictions apply. Please speak to a YMCA Trainer or Instructor for more information.

Terms & Conditions

Limitation of Liability

Your safety is important to us. Our commitment to proper maintenance and upkeep of our buildings and equipment is an important part of ensuring a safe environment for all to enjoy. While YMCA staff and volunteers make every reasonable effort to minimize exposure to known risks, our participants understand and agree that there is still a risk of injury. In registering for a YMCA membership or program, or while visiting a YMCA facility, you agree that you and/or your child(ren) are participating voluntarily and do so at your/their own risk. You agree to fully release the YMCA and its officers, directors, agents, staff, instructors and volunteers from all claims or lawsuits for any injuries, death, property damage or theft, losses, or any other liability of any kind, arising directly or indirectly out of your or your child(ren)’s participation in YMCA membership and programs and/or use of any YMCA equipment or facilities.

Account Information & Privacy

As a charitable, community based organization, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, privacy and accuracy of the personal information it collects, uses and discloses about its participants, members, donors, parents/guardians, staff and volunteers. As an account holder, it is your responsibility to keep your information secure. Your account password and payment information should never be shared. Please review your privacy settings on a regular basis.

Access Card Policy

YMCA Access Cards will only be issued once valid government-issued photo ID is provided (for those under the age of 16, the account holder or payer must be present). All YMCA Access Card holders agree that membership and facility access are non-transferrable (they may only be used by the person indicated (name/photo) on the card). YMCA Access Card holders understand that they must sign-in at the Member Services Desk before accessing any part of the YMCA. If your YMCA Access Card is lost, or stolen, the YMCA should be notified immediately (a replacement fee may apply).

Payment Agreement

When purchasing any membership, program, product or service from the YMCA or its representatives, you acknowledge that you have read and fully comprehend all of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Terms & Conditions. You agree that it is your responsibility to provide the YMCA with your up-to-date personal, contact, and payment information.

You authorize the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka to withdraw funds from your account in accordance with the invoice, payment schedule, and expiry dates you were provided at the point of sale (online, in-person and/or via email). You understand that if you are found to be using YMCA memberships, programs or services for which you have not paid, those fees will be invoiced and added to your balance.
As the account holder, you agree that any pre-authorized payments rejected by your financial institution will result in an additional $15 administration fee by the YMCA, as well as any bank service charges, and you agree to pay all fees. You understand that the YMCA may make a second attempt to recover any outstanding fees, and may proceed with collection actions if necessary.
You understand that YMCA fees, policies and terms & conditions are subject to change. The YMCA will provide written notice (mail and/or email) a minimum of 30 days prior to any changes in your fees or account.

To change, hold, or cancel YMCA memberships, program registration, or other YMCA products and services:

As a YMCA account holder (payer), you agree that you must provide at least 14 days written notice (prior to, but not including your next payment date) in order to change, hold, or cancel any YMCA membership, program registration, or other YMCA product or service, so that any remaining payments can be cancelled.

For scheduled appointments (i.e. Personal Training, Private Swim Lesson, etc.) 24 hours advanced notice will be sufficient.

You understand that verbal notice will not be accepted. You understand that for any requests received within or after these notice periods (above), refunds will not be issued (regardless of usage).

*Please note, any approved refunds for invoices paid by cash, cheque or debit, will be returned by EFT (as the Y is currently not issuing cheques). A YMCA staff member may reach out to you directly to obtain your banking information so that your refund can be provided by EFT. Please allow up to 30 days for your refund to be processed. YMCA Sales/Service Representatives are unable to process or provide refunds.

Join the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka

Being a YMCA member gives you access to motivating programs, expert support, and a welcoming community. You’re part of more than just a gym: you’re joining one of Canada’s oldest charities, dedicated to helping you thrive and building a healthier community.

How do I join?

Take a look at our membership options to determine the membership that’s best for you.
Choose which of our YMCA locations is closest to you for your convenience.
Purchase a membership through our YMCA Online Portal, or visit one of our locations to sign-up in person.